Euclid planning commission backs recommendation for bar at sports complex; sends use exception to council

The Euclid Planning and Zoning Commission voted 3-0 on Oct. 21 to recommend City Council approve a use district exception so the Euclid Sports Plant can add a full-service bar at 20001 Euclid Avenue.

Planning staff told the commission the applicant seeks approval to operate a bar with seating for about 100 people and a kitchen in the northeast corner of the former GM plant. The property is in a U-6 Industrial and Manufacturing District, where a bar is not a permitted use; staff cited Chapter 13.75 of Euclid's planning and zoning code and said a use district exception may be appropriate if the commission finds the standards in that chapter are met.

Joseph Hench, who identified himself as the new owner of the Euclid Sports Plant, told the commission the additional service area is an extension of an existing bar and kitchen at the facility. "My purpose in taking over the sports plant is simple, to bring fun, quality, and safe activities to people of all ages right here in Euclid," Hench said. He said the proposed area would mirror the existing back bar and kitchen and serve patrons attending sports events, tournaments and programs at the facility.

The staff report described the proposed space as having interior windows facing volleyball courts and multiple TV viewing areas; it estimated seating for approximately 100 people, excluding standing room. Staff also reminded the applicant that any use approved by the commission must still be approved by Euclid City Council and that occupancy is not authorized until all applicable building permits are closed and a certificate of occupancy is issued by the City of Euclid Building Department.

Commissioners questioned the applicant about hours, parking and neighborhood impacts. Hench said the bar would operate only to serve customers attending facility events and activities and would not be open as a standalone business. He said the facility has closed as late as 1:00 a.m. for adult tournaments in the past. Hench also said he inherited a full liquor license (D5, D6) with the business and that the larger service area was intended to reduce crowding.

Two written communications in opposition were read into the record. Abigail Vernon of 1497 E. 196th Street wrote, "I strongly [am] against granting this use district exception," and said residents previously worked to limit alcohol uses in the neighborhood. Anita Moreland of 1496 E. 204th Street wrote that her street has speeding problems and multiple near collisions and that she opposed another bar abutting her property.

Planning staff and commissioners encouraged the applicant to consult with the neighborhood association and the council member for the area to address concerns. The commission moved and approved a motion to forward a positive recommendation to Euclid City Council. Commissioner Monroe made the motion; Commissioner Williams seconded. Roll-call votes were recorded as yes from Monroe, Williams and Drake.

Because only three commissioners were present, staff reminded the applicant that the commission's recommendation would require three affirmative votes on the five-member body to be approved; the Planning and Zoning Commission's positive recommendation now goes to City Council for final action. If City Council approves, the applicant must obtain all required permits and a certificate of occupancy before the expanded service area may open.